Common questions
Questions we get asked
Whether this is your first online auction or your fiftieth, here is how our sales run. If your question is not answered here, call and ask.
Bidding
Registering, placing bids, and how the soft close works.
- Are your auctions online or in person?
- All bidding happens online through HiBid, so you can take part from anywhere and you never have to stand in a crowd to win a lot. What changes is where the goods sit. Some sales run from the Dorshorst Auctions building at 113 N Main St., Deerfield, WI 53531, and others run from the estate's own location when the property is too large or too fragile to move. Either way, the catalog, the bidding, and the invoicing all run through the same online platform.
- How do I register for an auction?
- Registering for an auction with us is a straightforward process. Simply visit HiBid.com, go to our catalog, and click register for auctions. Follow the prompts on HiBid to bid on our auctions. One HiBid account works for every sale we run, though you do register for each individual auction before bidding in it.
- How do I place a bid?
- Bidding is done online at HiBid. Log in to your account, register for the auction, and enter your bid amount on any lot in the catalog. You can also set a maximum bid and let the platform bid on your behalf in the standard increments.
- Do I have to be online when the auction closes?
- No. If you cannot watch the close, set a maximum bid and HiBid will bid for you up to that amount, raising your bid only as far as it needs to go. HiBid emails you if someone outbids you, so you can decide whether to raise your limit. Lots also close soft, staying open as long as bids keep coming, so nothing is won by sniping in the final second.
- Are there any restrictions on bidding?
- Bidders must be at least 18 years old to participate. Some auctions carry specific requirements, so review the terms posted with the sale before you bid. Every bid is a binding offer to purchase, so bid only on what you intend to pay for.
- How do I know if I won?
- Winners are notified by email after the auction concludes. You will receive an invoice with payment details and instructions for item pickup or shipping.
- What is the auction schedule?
- Current and upcoming auctions are listed on this site and in our HiBid catalog, with dates, closing times, and details about the items being sold. Past auctions stay online too, which is a useful way to see what comparable items have brought.
- What types of items do you sell at auction?
- At Dorshorst Auctions, we offer a diverse range of items for bidding, including antiques, collectibles, household goods, and farm equipment. Our auctions feature carefully curated selections that cater to various interests and needs. Whether you are looking for unique decorative pieces or practical tools, you are sure to find something special at our sales.
Payment, pickup & shipping
What you owe, when you owe it, and how items get to you.
- Can I preview items before bidding?
- Yes, we encourage bidders to preview items before the auction. Previews are typically by appointment only. Contact Marv to set up your appointment. Call (608) 628-1631 and he will find a time that works.
- What condition are items sold in?
- All items are sold as is, where is, with no warranties or guarantees of any kind, expressed or implied. Read the lot titles and descriptions carefully and look at every photo. If a lot matters to you, book a preview and inspect it yourself before you bid.
- How and when do I pay for what I win?
- Invoices are settled by credit card, and cards are charged within 24 hours after the auction closes. There is no buyer's premium. A 4% transaction fee applies to credit card payments, and Wisconsin sales tax of 5.5% applies where required. If you would rather pay cash, arrange it with us before the auction closes.
- Do you ship, or do I have to pick up?
- Most buyers pick up at the Dorshorst Auctions building, 113 N Main St., Deerfield, WI 53531, during the designated pickup times listed with the auction. We ship small lots for a $10.00 handling fee plus the actual USPS or UPS cost, and shipped items go out within 7 days after the pickup window. Larger lots are pickup only.
Selling with us
Consigning an estate, a collection, or a shed full of tools.
- What types of auctions do you offer?
- We specialize in a variety of auctions, including estate, household, antique, and farm auctions. Whether you are looking to downsize or liquidate an estate, we have the expertise to assist you.
- How does the auction process work?
- Our auction process begins with a consultation to assess your needs. We then handle everything from item registration to marketing and conducting the auction, ensuring a smooth experience for both sellers and buyers.
- How do I prepare items for auction?
- Preparing items for auction involves organizing and cleaning them, as well as providing any necessary documentation. Our team is here to guide you through this process to maximize your auction results. One request before you start: do not throw anything out until we have looked at it, because the items people assume are worthless are often the ones that draw the most attention.
- What fees are associated with your auction services?
- Our fees vary depending on the type of auction and the services provided. We are transparent about our pricing and will discuss all fees during your initial consultation. That first conversation is free and carries no obligation.
- What if I have more questions?
- If you have additional questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you every step of the way. Call Marv at (608) 628-1631 or email dorshorstauctions@gmail.com.
Still have questions?
Call Marv directly. Previews are by appointment, and questions about a specific lot are always welcome before you bid.